Forensics tool helps police crack suspects' cell phones

Everyone uses electronic devices these days, and that includes terrorists, criminals and hackers. But even if an investigator is lucky enough to recover a bad guy’s cell phone, tablet or laptop, it’s no safe bet that any information can be gleaned from it.

Before that can happen the security needs to be cracked, and that’s where Paraben’s newest software tool, Device Seizure 6, comes into play.

The latest version of the product, which is retailing for $1,795, is a Windows-based software tool. Buyers can choose to purchase just the software with cables to install on their own PCs, or they can buy Device Seizure Integrated, a tablet system with Device Seizure and another program, Deployable Device Seizure, fully integrated. There is also a Mobile Field Kit option as well as the DS Box, a kiosk-based system for logical extractions only. All Device Seizure purchase options include a full cable and power option kit.

The latest version of the forensic software builds on the company's experience with digital forensics. Device Seizure 6 can reveal a lot about any phone, such as using Google Earth to pinpoint exactly where it’s been. It can also find and map the complete file system, including deleted data. Reconstructing deleted files works with most devices, including most CDMA phones, Android phones and some GPS devices.

Probably the most important tool in the DM6 arsenal is password extraction, since that’s generally the first thing that’s needed. Device Manager 6 can crack passwords on hundreds of devices in just a few moments, according to the company.

After gaining access to a seized device, users can easily access call logs, SMS text messages, contacts and pictures using either Device Seizure 6 or the Deployable Device Seizure software, which comes free with every purchase of Device Seizure 6.